Conformable

Part of speech: adjective

Definitions

1. Able to be shaped or molded to fit something, or willing to comply with rules and standards
2. Capable of being adjusted or adapted to match specific requirements, and also inclined to follow established norms or expectations
3. Suitable for modification to align with external conditions while demonstrating a readiness to adhere to prescribed guidelines or conventions

Etymology: "Conformable" comes from the Latin "conformabilis," built from "conformare," meaning "to shape together" or "to fashion in accordance with." The Latin verb combines "con-" ("together") with "formare" ("to form"), so the literal sense is of things being shaped alike. From that physical image of matching one shape to another, the English word took on its two current senses: a thing that can be fitted or adapted to a requirement, and a person who readily falls into line with accepted patterns. The English adjective descends from the same Latin root as "conform," "form," and "formal," so it sits in a family of words all rooted in the idea of giving something a shape. The further step from shaping an object to shaping behavior is what gives the word its social flavor, since to be conformable is to have been, in effect, molded to fit the expected mold.

Synonyms: compliant, adaptable, submissive, yielding, obedient

Antonyms: inflexible, nonconformist, rebellious, resistant, uncooperative